DE69633833T2 - Device for implantation - Google Patents

Description

TECHNOLOGY AREA

These Invention relates to devices for medical treatment, and in more detail, on a device for insertion into a human organ is foldable and elastic can be restored (what in the specification and claims is referred to as "the device to be implanted").

RELATED STATE OF THE ART

The artificial Blood vessel is a Example of the device to be implanted. Nowadays a treatment is on For example, a main artery aneurysm by implantation an artificial one Blood vessel performed. More accurate expressed becomes the blood vessel section, which has an aneurysm, removed by resection, and an artificial one Blood vessel is being replaced the resected portion implanted and by sewing or the like connected to the remaining blood vessel.

The previously described method for surgically implanting the artificial Blood vessel to Treatment of the main artery aneurysm is highly dangerous. More specifically, has an emergency surgery to treat a torn aneurysm low survival rate, and an operation to dissect a main artery aneurysm is difficult to perform and is associated with a high mortality rate.

Around to treat these diseases without surgery therefore a method of introduction a catheter into a device such as an artificial one Blood vessel in the folded Condition into a human organ, such as a blood vessel, and transport the device to a desired Position, such as to an attacked or narrowed section, developed where the device is left to expand there and to be implanted.

The to be implanted device is formed such that a pair At the ends lying wire rings, which are flexible, foldable and elastic are arranged to be distributed, each lying at the ends Wire rings through a tubular shell, or Cover, which is made up of a layer of flexible and made of solid material, and with an intermediate lying Wire ring between the two lying at the ends wire rings arranged is and firmly with the previously mentioned tubular shell Sew or Bonding is connected.

When a method for folding the device to be implanted is The following procedure is applied, in which a variety of hooks for a passable String is formed on each of the other distributed points that each the circumference of the front end of the wire ring divided into an even number, and the one at the front end which is folded wire ring in a wavy shape, wherein the distributed points provided with hooks for a drawstring are, form forward-looking peaks, and wherein the distributed Points not with hooks for a drawstring are provided, the bottoms of the forward facing Forming indentations, a process in which each of the intervening lying wire rings and located at the rear end wire ring be folded into a wavy shape, which is the same phase as the front end wire ring has, and in which the whole artificial Blood vessel in one Catheter introduced becomes.

The aforementioned intervening wire ring is necessary in several respects: thus, it forms an artificial blood vessel with the ability to retain its tubular shape to fit into a human body when placed at a curved position in the body, thereby reducing the artificial blood vessel Blood vessel is protected from downstream pressures. When such an intermediate wire ring is attached to the tubular sheath, the device is easily protected from being folded. The reason is that the tubular sheath tries to follow the movement of the front end wire ring, which creates large wrinkles near the front end wire ring when the wire end lying at the front end is folded into a wavy shape because the tubular sheath Cover is connected to the front and at the rear end wire rings at both end portions. When the tubular sheath is made of a layer, the locally formed wrinkles do not cause transfer to the center of the tubular sheath. Therefore, when the entire peripheral portion of the interposed wire ring is fixedly connected to the tubular sheath, the center of the tubular sheath is pulled at certain circumferential positions toward the apex or indentation along the wavy shape of the intervening wire ring and the whole tubular sheath tends to do so Being bulky, at the same time, because of the sliding resistance, it will cause an unfavorable load on the interposed wire ring. The intervening wire ring can therefore be prevented from folding into a small size with a regular wavy shape due to the deformation in the direction in which the interposed wire ring is to be folded, and due to the folding force. Although the intervening wire ring is tightly connected to the tubular shell at only a few perimeter points, Each of them is removed, with the dots that have collected randomly causing a sliding resistance of the tubular envelope towards the tips or indentations, thus providing no effective device for solving the problem.

The reciprocal action between the wire ring in between and prevents the tubular sheath not just the folding of the intervening wire ring, but does not fold the device to be implanted perfectly and insufficiently. Curved sections passing through the device to be implanted unnatural folded, turn off the permanent function as a blood vessel. This also likes the transport movement of the artificial blood vessel through a catheter and the desired Hinder the function of the device to be implanted, as the implanting device is not perfectly restored, although the device to be implanted is released at the target site has been.

on the other hand the blood vessels are different in a body scattered, for example, forks an artery, that of the heart comes, at the groin area of the one thigh. If an attacked Area occurs in the bifurcated area, the aforementioned cylindrical artificial Blood vessel not as it is used, so it is necessary that an artificial blood vessel develops whose shape is for such a blood vessel shape fits. For implanting an artificial Blood vessel in one such bifurcated area is not enough, only the artificial blood vessel to the Target position over to transport a catheter and to release him there. In this case it is necessary, the artificial Blood vessel on a target position after release for a shape of the blood vessel to fit has to move, making it necessary to have a method of moving of the artificial Develop blood vessel.

US-A-5 405 378 shows a thread having a closure for controlling the wires trains the length a device to be implanted, so that the pulling out of the closing thread the control threads releases, so that the device to its Ausgangsgestallt can regress. Here, the closure thread is used to lock the device in to hold the contracted state until it has been placed is, and then the device of the contracted effect to free.

Finally, refers No. 5,290,305 to a device to be implanted with the features of the preamble of claim 1.

In However, in some applications, a device becomes on a curved section implanted in a blood vessel, and there is a need to fasten the device at their implanted site.

the According to it is Object of the invention to provide a device to be implanted, at the attachment of the device to the implanted position, especially when implanted in a curved shape Blood vessel, improved is.

These Task is with a device to be implanted with the features of claim 1. Advantageous modifications are shown in the dependent claims.

According to the invention is a stretchable elastic thread provided on the to be implanted Device acts to make a curved restored shape of the device after release receive. The according inserted the device is stuck in the blood vessel, especially when implanted in a curved portion of the blood vessel.

SHORT DESCRIPTION THE DRAWING

1 is a perspective view of an artificial blood vessel. 2 is a vertical sectional view of a part of the artificial blood vessel. 3 Figure 11 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the intervening wire ring forming the artificial blood vessel. 4 Fig. 12 shows a state how the intervening wire ring is fixed to the tubular cover. 5 is a perspective view of an apparatus for transporting the artificial blood vessel. 6 Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a device for introducing the artificial blood vessel. 7 Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a cartridge forming the device for introducing the artificial blood vessel. 8th is an enlarged vertical sectional view of a portion of the in 6 shown attachment. 9 is an enlarged vertical sectional view of a portion of the in 6 shown cartridge. 10 is a side view showing a hopper. 11 is a side view showing the pliers. 12 is a perspective view of the artificial blood vessel, through which the device for transporting the blood vessel is loosely inserted. 13 Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing a step for holding the artificial blood vessel by means of the device for transporting the artificial blood vessel. 14 Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing a step for holding the artificial blood vessel by means of the device for transporting the artificial blood vessel. 15 is an enlarged one Perspective view showing a part of the artificial blood vessel held by the device for transporting the artificial blood vessel. 16 Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing a step of inserting the artificial blood vessel into a catheter. 17 Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing a step of inserting the artificial blood vessel into the catheter. 18 Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing a step of inserting the artificial blood vessel into the catheter by the forceps. 19 shows the front end wire ring of the artificial blood vessel, which is folded. 20 shows the folded, located at the front end wire ring of the artificial blood vessel. 21 shows the folded, located at the front end wire ring of the artificial blood vessel. 22 shows the folded into a hopper, located at the front end wire ring of the artificial blood vessel. 23 Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing folded, interposed wire rings of the artificial blood vessel. 24 Fig. 11 is an expanded view showing the folded interposed wire rings of the artificial blood vessel. 25 Fig. 10 is a partial sectional side view showing the artificial blood vessel inserted into the cartridge. 26 is a diagram showing each of the folded wire rings. 27 is a partial sectional side view showing the cartridge from which the hopper is pulled out. 28 is a partial sectional side view showing the cartridge attached to the attachment. 29 Fig. 10 is a sectional view showing the artificial blood vessel being transported to the damaged portion. 30 shows a step of releasing the artificial blood vessel at the affected part in a blood vessel. 31 shows a step of releasing the artificial blood vessel at the attacked area in the blood vessel. 32 Fig. 10 is a sectional view showing the artificial blood vessel released at the affected portion in the blood vessel. 33 shows a step of expanding the artificial blood vessel by means of a balloon catheter. 34 is a perspective view of an artificial blood vessel. 35 Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing the artificial blood vessel previously folded by a suture. 36 Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing the method of folding the artificial blood vessel by means of a suture. 37 Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing the artificial blood vessel around which a thread is wound. 38 Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing a device for transporting the artificial blood vessel. 39 FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a device for transporting the artificial blood vessel around the rear end wire ring of the in FIG 28 to draw shown artificial blood vessel. 40 shows the principle of how the artificial blood vessel is used. 41 shows the principle of how the artificial blood vessel is used. 42 shows the principle of how the artificial blood vessel is used. 43 shows the principle of how the artificial blood vessel is used. 44 is a diagram showing another artificial blood vessel. 45 is a diagram showing another artificial blood vessel. 46 Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing a device for transporting the artificial blood vessel. 47 shows a method for folding the artificial blood vessel. 48 shows a method of using the artificial blood vessel. 49 FIG. 13 is a view showing a process state for use. FIG. 50 Fig. 11 is a view showing a state just before the method for application has been completed. 51 is a view showing a valve that is used for a protective cover. 52 is a view showing another valve that is in place of the valve 51 can be used. 53 is a view showing a valve that is used for a guide tube of the. 54 Fig. 13 is a view showing a modification of the apparatus for transporting an artificial blood vessel. 55 is a sectional view taken along the lines X1-X1 54 , 56 is a sectional view taken along the line Y1-Y1 54 , 57 is a sectional view taken along lines Z1-Z1 54 , 58 is an in 55 shown view for transporting the artificial blood vessel, viewed from another angle. 59 Fig. 13 is a view showing a modification of the apparatus for transporting the artificial blood vessel. 60 is a sectional view taken along lines X2-X2 59 , 61 is a sectional view taken along the line Y2-Y2 59 , 62 is a sectional view taken along the line Z2-Z2 59 , 63 is a view of in 59 shown device for transporting an artificial blood vessel, viewed from another angle. 64 is a sectional view showing a change that 62 equivalent. 65 Fig. 14 is a view showing a variant different from the above of the artificial blood vessel transporting apparatus. 66 is a sectional view taken along the line X3-X3 65 , 67 is a sectional view taken along the line Z3-Z3 65 , 68 Fig. 13 is a view showing a variant different from the aforementioned apparatus for transporting the artificial blood vessel. 69 is a sectional view taken along the line Z4-Z4 68 , 70 is a sectional view taken along the line Z3-Z3 68 , 71 Fig. 13 is a view showing an embodiment of an artificial blood vessel.

BEST EMBODIMENTS THE INVENTION

The The invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

To implant the artificial blood vessel A as The device which is folded up has, as in 1 shown is a cover 7 , at the end lying wire rings 10 ₁ . 10 ₂ and intervening wire rings 12 ,

In the 2 shown cover 7 consists of a flexible, solid layer, which is formed as a tube with folds whose normal diameter substantially corresponds to the shape of the portion of the human blood vessel into which the artificial blood vessel A is to be implanted. The layer of the cover 7 consists, for example, of chains extending in the axial direction of the artificial blood vessel A and woven with weft yarn extending circumferentially thereof, the polyester thread (15 denier) chains and the weft yarn of a plurality of superfine threads (US Pat. 50 denier) made multiple threads are braided. The weft yarn is additionally woven with polyethylene fibers of about 10 denier around the layer of the cover 7 thinner and stronger. The cover 7 If necessary, it is coated with water-resistant material such as collagen or albumin to prevent blood leakage.

The front and back wire rings 10 ₁ . 10 ₂ , whose inner diameter substantially to that of the cover described above 7 are axially spaced and face each other and are by stitching or gluing, as in 2 is shown at the opposite ends of the cover 7 attached. As in 1 Shown are loop-shaped front hooks 13 at a pair of distributed points 41 ₁ and 43 ₁ formed over each other across the axis of the four points distributed 41 ₁ . 42 ₁ . 43 ₁ . 44 ₁ facing each other, each of which is the circumference of the front end wire ring 10 ₁ equally quartered. The hooks 13 are made of thread. It does not necessarily have to be thread, but can also be a right in the cover 7 trained hole serve as a hook, if no difficulties arise. The circumference of the wire ring at the front and at the back 10 ₁ . 10 ₂ is each with a protective winding 10a , covered, as in 1 and 2 are shown, each of which located near the ends of wire rings 10 ₁ . 10 ₂ attached to appropriate positions with wire, glue or the like form fit. The protective windings 10a For example, they are made of polyester fiber wrapped in a bundle such as cotton. For blood vessels with a particularly small diameter, into which the artificial blood vessel A is to be implanted, are the protective coils 10a better attached to the positions that extend forward to the end wire rings 10 ₁ . 10 ₂ move. The reason is that the protective windings 10a can be pressed to move to the appropriate positions, in the vicinity of the end lying wire rings 10 ₁ . 10 ₂ are covered as shown by dashed lines in 2 is shown when the transport resistance acts on them.

A lot of intervening wire rings 12 , respectively, as in 1 to 4 shown is wire rings 12a are those with a protective fabric or the like existing film 12b are wound axially and substantially equidistant between the front and rear end wire rings 10 ₁ and 10 ₂ arranged, and at certain positions of the circumference thereof by fibers, adhesive or the like on the cover 7 attached. The specific positions are the points 513 . 523 . 533 and 543 on the perimeter, one each at the center 51a between the distributed points 41 ₁ . 42 ₁ the end of the wire ring 10 ₁ the center 52 ₁ between the distributed points 42 ₁ . 43 ₁ the center 35 ₁ between the distributed points 43 ₁ . 44 ₁ and the center 54 ₁ between the distributed points 44 ₁ . 45 ₁ and, more precisely, the points at which the generatrices l ₁ , l ₂ , l ₃ and l ₄ pass through the centers 51 ₁ . 52 ₁ . 53 ₁ and 54 ₁ the end wire rings 10 ₁ pass through, the intervening wire rings 12 , The aforementioned wire rings located at the front and at the rear end 10 ₁ . 10 ₂ and the intervening wire rings 12 help the cover 7 to preserve the tubular shape.

Some of the intervening wire rings 12 are with thorns 12a ₁ provided at diametrically opposite positions on each circumference thereof and piercing a human organ to be embedded therein. More precisely, the wires are made 12a the intervening rings 12 as well as those of the front and rear end wire rings 10 ₁ . 10 ₂ Ti-Ni alloy or the like. The Ti-Ni alloy wires have a highly elastic restoring force but are difficult to weld. As in 3 is shown, a partially cylindrical fixation 12c into the wire ring in between 12 is loosely inserted and a thorn 12a ₁ prepared in U-shape or V-shape prepared. Then the thorn becomes 12a ₁ through and into the gap between the ring in between 12 and the fixation 12c passed and introduced. Finally, the fixation 12c riveted and edged with a thread or the like to the thorn 12a ₁ on the wire ring between them 12 to fix. The positions where each of the spines 12a ₁ is provided correspond to the aforementioned positions 51 ₃ . 52 ₃ . 53 ₃ and 54 ₃ ,

In order to implant the artificial blood vessel A with the structure described above in a target organ of a human body, a Vor direction B for transporting the artificial blood vessel (see 5 ) used to pass the artificial blood vessel A to the target organ of the human body through the catheter 8th and a device C for introducing the artificial blood vessel (see 6 ) used to place the artificial blood vessel A in the catheter 8th introduce.

The device B for transporting the artificial blood vessel, as in 5 shown has a flexible metallic tube 2 , whose front end portion with a coil spring 2a connected to the guide, a side window 1 , which is adjacent to the front end of the tube 2 is formed, a few threads 4 , both of which end at the tube 2 adjacent to the side window 1 are fastened, and their middle portions for the formation of loop-shaped sections 4a are formed as loops, and a wire length 3 in the tube 2 is introduced in a sliding manner. Instead of the previously mentioned coil spring 2a for guidance, a flexible tube can be used. The device for transporting the artificial blood vessel may only be one tube 2 and a wire length 3 included, which will be described later.

The device C for introducing the artificial blood vessel, as in 6 shown has a fixture 5 that is integral with the catheter 8th about an open end 8a connected to it, and a cartouche 6 attached to the attachment 5 is removably attached. As in 6 and 8th shown has the attachment 5 a first and a second annular member 51 . 52 threaded internally to form nuts, and a third annular member 53 externally threaded to form screws on opposite sides which engage with the aforementioned nuts, whereby the interior of the first and second annular members 51 . 52 is connected to its screw portion. The catheter 8th is shaped to an open end 8a having a slightly larger diameter, and at the tip of the screw of the aforementioned third annular member 53 at its open end 8a attached. Then, the third annular member 53 with the interior of the open end 8a of the catheter 8th connected liquid-tight. Within the second annular member 52 is a control valve 55 provided, which is made of elastic membrane to close the open end thereof, and outside of it is a cylindrical, helical member 52a provided with helical recess fitting. The cartouche 6 , as in 6 . 7 and 9 is shown has a first and a second annular member 61 . 62 Internally threaded to form nuts, a third annular member 63 externally threaded to form at opposite ends of screws which engage with the previously described nuts at opposite ends to the first and second annular members 61 . 62 to connect a straw 64 whose rear end is liquid-tight at the tip of one of the screw parts of the third annular component 63 is attached, and whose front end is in the cartridge 6 to be inserted direction, a cylindrical guide tube 65 with an inside diameter that is the straw 64 may include one end of which is integral with the first annular member 61 connected and the other end with a large section 65a is provided, and an essay 66 in the axial direction of the guide tube 65 is slidably movable and on the outside of the guide tube 65 is detachably adapted and whose interior is provided with a helical recess, which by screwing with the helical component 52a the attachment 5 is connected. A control valve 68 of elastic membrane is within the second annular member 26 provided to close the open end thereof.

As in 6 shown is the straw 64 the cartouche 6 formed such that the front end portion 6a of which in the rear end section 5a the attachment 5 removably fitted. More specifically, as in 6 . 8th and 9 is shown, the inner cylinder diameter d ₁ near the open end 8a of the catheter 8th equal to or slightly larger than the inner cylinder diameter d _{2 of} the straw 64 the cartouche 6 set, and the length L _{2 of} the straw 64 that is different from the big section 65a of the guide tube 65 extends approximately equal to the length L ₁ between the end portion 5a the attachment 5 and the position a bit further than the open end 8a of the catheter 8th set. The big section 65a which is at one end of the cartridge 6 is formed, is in abutting engagement with the end portion 5a the attachment 5 with the essay 66 on the outer circumference of the cylindrical helical component 52a , as in 28 is shown fastened by screws, and the front end portion 6a of the straw 64 is in the open end 8a of the catheter 8th introduced, so the straw 64 uniform with the interior of the open end 8a Connected to the catheter. The aforementioned control valves 55 . 68 are made of elastic membrane, inside which a normally closed hole, not shown in the drawing, is formed.

A hopper 18 as a guide tube and a pair of pliers 19 , as in 10 and 11 are shown are provided to help the false operation of the artificial blood vessel A. The funnel 18 is with an enlarged inlet opening 18a with enlarged diameter at the rear En dabschnitt, through which the tubular, artificial blood vessel A in the hopper 18 is introduced. The funnel 18 has from the enlarged inlet opening 18a a gradually decreasing diameter to a tubular connector 18b smaller diameter at the front end portion thereof to end so that the funnel 18 a conical inner surface 18d Has. The funnel 18 is how in 25 is shown by inserting the front port 18b in the rear end section 6b the cartouche 6 removably connected. The forceps 19 is used to grip the artificial blood vessel A to place it in the hopper 18 introduce. The forceps 19 is at its gripping surfaces with an engaging component 19a provided which has a toothing against the insertion direction and in the direction to pull out to the sliding resistance between the pliers 19 and the artificial blood vessel A during insertion of the forceps 19 relative to pulling it out.

The method of folding the artificial blood vessel A and implanting it in a position to be implanted, namely, a target position (an affected portion 26 in 29 ) of a blood vessel 9 by means of a device B for transporting the artificial blood vessel and by means of a device C for introducing the artificial blood vessel having the aforementioned structure will now be described below.

First, the tube 2 the device B for transporting the artificial blood vessel through an artificial blood vessel A , as in 12 shown, introduced, and each of the few threads 4 gets through every hook 13 of the artificial blood vessel A , as in 13 is shown, guided, and the looped portions of the threads 4 overlap, as in 4a is shown. A wire 3 has its forward end out of the side window 1 stretched out, as in 14 is shown, and the overlapping portions of the loop-shaped sections 4a be on the wire 3 hooked, and then the front end of the wire 3 back in the tube 2 through the side window 1 introduced to the artificial blood vessel A on the wire 3 and the tube 2 over the threads 4 to keep as in 15 is shown. The artificial blood vessel A is then placed in the in 6 shown cartridge 6 through the hopper 18 with the help of pliers 19 introduced. More precisely, the pliers will 19 along the center lines, each of which passes through the distributed points 41 ₁ and 43 ₁ rich, with the help of a common Frontzugbands 20 guided by the front hooks 13 ranges, those at the distributed points 41 ₁ . 43 ₁ at the front end wire ring 10 ₁ of the artificial blood vessel A are provided as in FIG 16 is shown. Before this process can be a balloon catheter 23 , as in 17 shown, if necessary to the tube 2 be attached. The balloon catheter 23 has a tube 23a , a balloon 23b at the front end of the tube 23a is formed, and an opening 23c at the rear end of the tube 23a is provided to air in or out of the aforementioned balloon 23b through the tube 23a introduce or remove. The tube 23a is over the tube 2 detachably adapted to the aforementioned device B for transporting the artificial blood vessel. In other words, the rear end portion of the tube 2 the device B for transporting the artificial blood vessel from the rear end of the balloon 23b of the balloon catheter 23 pulled while the front end portion of the tube 2 through the balloon 23b of the balloon catheter 23 ranges and is released to the outside, taking the section of the catheter 23 through which the tube passes 2 protrudes, is hermetically sealed. The rear end portion of the tube 23a is removable with the tube 2 the device B for transporting the artificial blood vessel by means of a fastening component 24 connected, and the balloon catheter 23 and the tube 2 The device B for transporting the artificial blood vessel may be moved together as a unit in the longitudinal direction when the attachment member 24 moored, and the balloon catheter 23 can be longitudinally relative to the tube 2 the device B are moved when the fastening component 24 is solved. The balloon catheter 23 is arranged such that its front end from the rear end of the artificial blood vessel A , the loose over the tube 2 is adjusted 2 to 3 cm apart. Then the fastening component 24 on the balloon catheter 23 attached to the catheter on the tube 2 to attach, so the catheter 23 and the tube 2 as a unit can be moved together.

Before or after the step described above becomes the hopper 18 on a cartouche 6 attached, as in 18 is shown. When attaching the hopper 18 to the cartouche 6 becomes the connection 18b of the hopper 18 in the annular component 62 the cartouche 6 introduced, so the control valve 68 made of elastic membrane inside the annular component 42 is provided by the connection 18b of the hopper 18 is pushed open, as in 25 shown and the connection 18b gets into the straw with shallow depth 64 the cartouche 6 introduced. Then the artificial blood vessel A is placed in the funnel 18 through the enlarged inlet opening 18a introduced by gripping with the help of pliers, as in 18 is shown. The front drawstring 20 gets into the hopper 18 through the enlarged inlet opening 18a introduced and through the straw 64 at the front end of the cartridge 6 retracted, with the tube 2 with a certain length in the hopper 18 is introduced. Under this condition, the front drawstring becomes 20 towards the introduction of the art blood vessel A in the hopper 18 through the enlarged inlet opening 18a drawn.

Then the wire ring at the front end becomes 10 ₁ of the artificial blood vessel A deformed to be flat as in 19 and 20 shown to be in the positions gripped by the forceps, namely at the points distributed 41 ₁ . 43 ₁ which approach each other while they are in the hopper 18 pressed while the other points distributed 42 ₁ . 44 ₁ from the movement in the direction of the tubular connection 18b by sliding contact with the conical inner surface 18d of the hopper 18 be held. When the wire ring at the front end 10 ₁ the proximity of the tubular connection 18b of the hopper 18 reaches, the wire ring lying at the front end 10 ₁ as a whole folded into a uniform wavy shape, while the points distributed 41 ₁ . 43 ₁ , outward peaks form and the other points distributed 42 ₁ . 44 ₁ forming the bottoms of the forward indentations. The intervening wire rings 12 and the wire ring at the back end 10 ₂ Also, they begin to deform into a corrugated shape that is the same phase as that of the front-end wire ring 10a , has, as in 22 shown as both the movement of the front end wire ring 10 ₁ towards the tubular connection 18b by grasping with the help of pliers 19 consequences. If you have the wire ring in between 12 considered if the intervening wire ring 12 , as in 23 and 24 is shown on the tubular cover 7 only at the points 51 ₃ . 52 ₃ . 53 ₃ . 54 ₃ attached to the circumference thereof, each of them corresponding to the centers between the adjacent distributed points, projecting through the tongs 19 grabbed points forward and other points remain behind the aforementioned points 51 ₃ . 52 ₃ . 53 ₃ . 54 ₃ that serve as turning points, making the intervening wire ring 12 is rotated and deformed into a wavy shape without the tubular cover 7 go along.

Under this condition, the pliers from the hopper 18 retracted and the front drawstring 20 is moved toward the further insertion of the artificial blood vessel A in the cartridge 6 drawn. If the front drawstring 20 is retracted, the tensile force on the lying at the front end wire ring 10 ₁ acts over the tubular cover 7 to the intervening wire rings 12 and the rear end wire ring 10 ₂ transferred, making the intervening wire rings 12 and the wire ring at the back end 10 ₂ the movement of the front end wire ring 10 ₁ consequences. When the artificial blood vessel A is completely in a cartridge 6 is included as in 25 shown are the intervening wire rings 12 and the wire ring at the back end 10 ₂ folded to a small size to take a wavy shape, the same phase as that of the front end wire ring 10 ₁ has, as in 26 is shown.

If the pliers 19 with the aforementioned serrated engagement members 19a provided, it can grab the artificial blood vessel A safely and easily into the funnel 18 Press while off the hopper 18 can be withdrawn, placing the artificial blood vessel A in the funnel 18 by gently sliding between the artificial blood vessel A and the funnel 18 leaves. If the rings 10 ₁ and 10 ₂ folded, it is not necessary to mention that the protective windings 10a around the front end and rear end wire ring 10 ₁ . 10 ₂ are arranged on the circumference, also folded to a wave-like shape, that of the lying at the front and at the rear end wire ring 10 ₁ . 10 ₂ follows to take.

Under the condition is the front drawstring 20 not tied or cut at a specific position and is pulled at its ends to from the front hook 13 to be pulled away, and the hopper 18 is from the cartouche 6 away. Consequently, the artificial blood vessel A is in the straw 64 the cartouche 6 , as in 27 shown and included only the balloon catheter 23 in which the tube 2 is provided is through the rear end portion 6b the cartouche 6 with the control valve 68 which is a bit open, outward.

As in 28 shown is the catheter 8th first by, for example, the coaxial artery near the groin F into the blood vessel 9 inserted so close to the front end of the catheter 8th just before the attacked section 26 for example, like aneurism of the aorta, as in 29 is shown is positioned. The attachment 5 at the open end 8a of the catheter 8th is attached, as in 28 is shown protruding from the body. The straw 64 the cartouche 6 Into which the artificial blood vessel A has been introduced is inserted into the attachment 5 through the rear end section 5a pressed it down until the big section 65a with the rear end portion 5a comes into plant while the control valve 5 is open as in 28 shown, and the essay 66 is moved to by screwing on the outer surface of the helical component 52a to be connected. Then the straw 64 the cartouche 6 positioned so that its front end 6a light with the inner surface of the open end 8a of the catheter 8th is connected, this connection by screwing with the essay 66 and the helical component 52a is held. Under this condition becomes the balloon catheter 23 gripped and the balloon catheter 23 is pressed, so he gradually into the catheter 8th is introduced. If the tube 2 , as in 17 shown with the balloon catheter 23 through the fastening component 24 connected, and the artificial blood vessel A through the tube 2 is held, is a movement of the balloon catheter 23 Gradually bring the artificial blood vessel A into the interior of the body for movement. The balloon catheter 23 gets up to the front end of the tube 2 at the front end of the catheter 8th , as in 29 is shown, positioned, pressed. At the same time, the artificial blood vessel A becomes the affected part 26 positioned as a target position. If the catheter, as in 30 shown with the balloon catheter 23 and the tube in which the wire is inserted is on the left side of the desired position, the folded artificial blood vessel A in the catheter becomes at the affected portion 26 in the blood vessel 9 released while moving from the front end, as in 30 . 31 and 32 is shown, piece by piece expands. The released artificial blood vessel A is returned to its original tubular shape and against the inner wall of the blood vessel 9 pressed. In other words, when the artificial blood vessel A , which is folded into the small shape as shown in the figures, is folded from the catheter 23 is released, each of the quartering points becomes elastically in a direction substantially perpendicular to the blood vessel 9 recycled. The artificial blood vessel A thus leads back open with each end portion, and the inner surface of the artificial blood vessel A is close to the inner wall of the blood vessel 9 , The fastening component 24 , as in 17 is then released to the balloon catheter 23 from the tube 2 to solve, and the balloon catheter 23 gets along the tube 2 into the artificial blood vessel A with the tube 2 which remains in the desired position as long as the front end of the balloon catheter 23 reaches the front end of the artificial blood vessel A , as in 23 shown, causing the balloon 23b by supplying air through the opening 23c is inflated, as in 33 is shown to thereby completely return the artificial blood vessel A to its original shape and secure to the inner wall of the blood vessel. At this time, the thorns sting 12a ₁ into the inner wall of the blood vessel 9 and are embedded there. After the artificial blood vessel A has been attached in this manner, the balloon becomes 23b of the balloon catheter 23 by releasing air through the opening 23c deflated and the balloon catheter 23 is removed from the artificial blood vessel A by pulling the tube 23a pulled backwards. Then it is determined that the artificial blood vessel A is on the inner wall of the blood vessel 9 is attached, and then the wire is out of the tube 2 drawn. If the front end of the wire 3 the back edge of the side window 1 the tube 2 happens as in 13 is shown, the tubular portion of the thread 4 through the wire on the side window 1 has been captured by the wire 3 released. If the tube 2 is pulled out, the thread slides 4 from the front hook 13 of the artificial blood vessel A. The balloon catheter 23 and the tube 2 are then again through the fastening component 24 connected and are pulled out of the human body, while only the artificial blood vessel A at the desired position of the blood vessel 9 remains.

As mentioned before, the artificial blood vessel A becomes the affected part 26 implanted and returned to its original shape, effectively blocking the affected section 26 in the blood vessel 9 can be prevented. With the aforementioned artificial blood vessel A and its folding method, the artificial blood vessel A can be easily and accurately folded. In other words, if the intervening wire ring 12 folded in the wavy shape, which is the same phase as that of the front end wire ring 10 ₁ has each of the points when extreme approach 41 ₃ to ₃ on the perimeter, the distributed points 41 ₁ to 44 ₁ correspond, a tip of a mountain or a bottom of a valley formed by twisting between two mountains, while the positions 51 ₃ that the centers 51 ₁ to 54 ₁ between each of the two adjacent distributed points, can not be moved forward or backward. If the intervening wire rings 12 firmly attached to the tubular cover 7 at the points 51 ₃ to 54 ₃ are attached, the points of the intervening wire rings 12 , which are bent most when folding, free of the tubular cover 7 , This makes the intervening wire rings 12 free from the pulling resistance of the tubular cover, whereby the free movement for folding can be secured with ease. If the intervening wire ring 12 to a wavy shape like the wire ring at the front end 10 ₁ has been folded, the whole artificial blood vessel A can be folded into a small size, yet a relatively large artificial blood vessel A can effectively to the affected portion 26 through a catheter 8th be transported. In addition, when the artificial blood vessel A is released at the target position in a blood vessel, the distributed points become 41 ₁ to 44 ₁ and the intervening wire rings 12 at right angles to the blood vessel together with the wire ring at the front end 10 ₁ returned, and the artificial blood vessel A does not close the interior of it. This naturally improves the number of successful implantations.

If the flexible windings 10a on the circumference of the front and at the rear end the wire rings 10 ₁ . 10 ₂ of the artificial blood vessel A , the inner wall of the human organ can be protected from them by direct contact with the front and rear end wire rings 10 ₁ . 10 ₂ In addition to the advantage that both ends of the implanted artificial blood vessel A can be sealed tightly against the inner wall of the human body, the leakage of blood through the ends of the artificial blood vessel A can be effectively prevented.

If the thorns 12a ₁ from the intervening wire rings 12 projecting, they pierce the inner wall of the human organ to be embedded therein, so that the whole artificial blood vessel A is fixed in the human organ. After the artificial blood vessel A has been implanted in the human organ, therefore, the thorns can 12a ₁ effectively prevent a displacement of the artificial blood vessel A , which may mean a displacement of the blood vessel A by the bloodstream in the downstream direction of the blood vessel.

If the number of distributed points is four, it is possible to effectively use the pliers 19 close. In other words, when, as described above, the whole artificial blood vessel A through the forceps 19 along the center lines l ₅ , l ₆ gripped by two points 41 ₁ to 43 ₁ the wire end at the front end 10 ₁ ranges, each of which has a catch 13 has, and arranged opposite each other and into the hopper 18 are introduced by the forceps 19 gripped points in front of the enlarged inlet opening 18a to the conical inner surface 18d of the hopper 18 guided, and the distributed points 42 ₁ . 44 ₁ Everyone does not have the hooks 13 are approaching each other with the movement to follow the distributed points 41 ₁ . 43 ₁ passing through the plant with the conical inner surface 18d of the hopper 18 be held in place, thereby preventing them from following. Consequently, the artificial blood vessel A is folded into a uniform wavy shape, with the points formed by the forceps 19 have been gripped, forming forward-facing peaks and the centers forming the bottoms of the forward-facing valleys. The same is true of the intervening wire rings 12 to, so that the wire rings in between 12 can be easily transformed into the undulating shape, the peaks and valleys with the points 51 ₃ . 52 ₃ . 53 ₃ . 54 ₃ at the periphery of which are the centers between the adjacent distributed points of the front end wire ring 10 ₁ which serve as a base, whereby the Einfaltbewegung can be easily and accurately performed.

The serrated engagement member 19a on the gripping surface of the pliers 19 is provided, it makes it very easy to use the pliers 19 insert or pull out because the serrated engagement member 19a , which is contrary to the insertion, is useful, the clamping force on the pliers 19 acts to act on a forward driving force on the artificial blood vessel A when the artificial blood vessel A is to be introduced while the serrated engaging member 19a , which is directed in the direction of engagement, it makes possible the pliers 19 from the hopper 18 during the artificial blood vessel A in the funnel 18 remains without pulling the artificial blood vessel A.

In addition, the device C for introducing the artificial blood vessel makes it very easy and easy, the artificial blood vessel A in the catheter 8th introduce. In other words, the reason why the device C is out of attachment 5 and the cartouche 6 where both are a control valve 55 . 68 not only is to prevent blood from flowing back, but also to create a strong section with device C that is easy to handle. The essay 66 is by screw connection to the outer surface of the helical component 52a attached to the cartouche 6 and the attachment 5 to connect liquid-tight. Excessive bleeding while pulling out the cartridge 6 from the attachment 5 can therefore be safely prevented, and at the same time, the front end of the straw 64 the cartouche 6 held to a stepless connection with the inner surface of the open end 8a of the catheter 8th train. If the aforementioned cartridge 6 at the attachment 5 can be fastened with accuracy, as long as the length of the straw 64 extending from the guide tube 65 extends, the same remains, the cartridge 6 easily on the artificial blood vessel A while varying the length by changing the length of the guide tube 65 or the straw 64 be applied.

For example, if the vessel of the affected portion where the artificial blood vessel is to be implanted is different from the one mentioned above and forked, it makes sense to construct the artificial blood vessel D as shown in FIG 34 shown is to use. The artificial blood vessel D is to be implanted, for example, in the blood vessel in the groin area. The artificial blood vessel D basically has the same structure as the above. This artificial blood vessel D is suitable for the shape of the blood vessel in which the artificial blood vessel D is to be implanted, thereby forming a single front-end wire ring 110 ₁ , the two arranged in parallel, located at the rear end wire rings 110 ₂ is arranged opposite, whose both diameters smaller than that of the front end wire ring 110 ₁ is, and through a bifurcated tubular cover 107 , the wire ring at the front end 110 ₁ with the two wire rings at the back end 110 ₂ combines. In between lying wire rings 112 ₁ whose diameter is basically the same as that of the front end wire ring 110 ₁ are located at the position where the diameter is the same as that of the front end wire ring 110 ₁ while intervening wire rings 112 ₂ whose diameter is basically the same as that of the rear end wire ring 11 are arranged at the position where the diameter is equal to that of the rear end wire ring 110 ₂ is. Each of the intervening wire rings 112 ₁ . 112 ₂ is with the cover 107 attached to a plurality of separate positions on the periphery thereof.

The artificial blood vessel D , which has previously been folded to a small size, is inserted into the catheter and transported to a target organ. The method of folding the artificial blood vessel D will be described. A few threads 100 ₁ . 100 ₂ are on each of the wire rings 110 ₁ . 112 ₁ . 112 ₂ . 110 ₂ of the artificial blood vessel D attached at the points where each of the wire rings 110 ₁ . 112 ₁ . 112 ₂ . 110 ₂ on the tubular cover 107 is attached. The wire ring in between 112 ₁ is representative of the exact explanation. The string 100 ₁ is first kept folded at its center and held by a control needle. In this state, the thread becomes 100 ₁ around the wire ring in between 112 ₁ wrapped in a clockwise direction by using the needle until it reaches the back of the intervening wire ring 112 ₁ achieved as in 36 is shown, and then sewn together at a plurality of separate positions with the needle. The points at which the thread 100 ₁ Sewn together, fall on the generatrix lines, which are the midpoints between the adjacent distributed points of the front end wire ring 110 ₁ match, and the thread 100 ₁ is sewn together in two positions. The string 100 ₁ is preferably with the protective film (like the protective film 12b in 2 Sewn together, the surface of the intervening wire ring 112 ₁ covering, but can attach to the tubular cover 107 can be sewn, as long as the artificial blood vessel D remains liquid-tight. Likewise, another thread becomes 100 ₂ around the wire ring in between 112 ₁ wrapped in a counterclockwise direction and then at positions that are symmetrical to the thread 100 ₁ are sewn together. Next is a staff 115 introduced into the artificial blood vessel D to assist the folding of the artificial blood vessel D. Loop-shaped sections 100a ₁ . 100a ₂ , each of which is at the top of a few threads 100 ₁ . 100 ₂ are formed overlap each other, through which a tie rod 114 is introduced, and then the end sections 100b ₁ . 100b ₂ the threads 100 ₁ . 100 ₂ tied together. The artificial blood vessel D is moved to folding if necessary by means of a finger or the like. The wire ring in between 112 ₁ is assembled such that the points corresponding to the centers between two adjacent distributed points are the rod 115 approximate when a thread passes through each of the points, thereby folding it into a wavy shape, while the distributed points between the points at which the thread is sewn together form alternately the bottoms of the valley or the peaks, as in FIG 37 is shown. This process is with each of the wire rings 110 ₁ . 112 ₁ . 112 ₂ . 110 ₂ carried out. The result is in 35 shown. How out 35 clearly seen, two tie rods are provided. The longer tension rod 114 ₁ Clamps the area between the wire ring to be folded at the front end 110 ₁ and a wire ring at the back end 110 ₂ , and the shorter tie rod 114 ₂ Clamps the area between the wire ring to be folded 112 ₂ located at the vertex and the other rear wire ring 110 ₂ ,

The tension rod 114 has a tube 114a and a wire 114b in the tube 114a is introduced. The tube 114a is pulled out and only the wire 114b remains behind after the artificial blood vessel D is kept in the folded state. Although the wire 114b a smaller diameter than that of the tube 114a has, can the wire 114b effectively tie the threads together. In addition, the wire can 114b be flexibly deformed in a curved section of the transport path, as it is more flexible than the tube 114a is. In other words, the tube becomes 114a used for a short time to facilitate the folding of the artificial blood vessel D , and then it is extracted with the rod after the artificial blood vessel D has been folded into a small shape.

This folded artificial blood vessel D is transported and implanted to a target position, namely, a bifurcated affected portion by a method in which three devices B ₁ , B ₂ , B _{3 are used} to transport the artificial blood vessel, as shown in FIG 38 is shown. The first device B ₁ for transporting the artificial blood vessel is the one in the tube 23a of the balloon catheter 23 while the leading tip passes through the artificial blood vessel D and extends so as to reach the foremost position, and a wire-end ring at the front end 110 ₁ while holding a thread through a front hook 113 at the front Ended wire rings 110 ₁ hooks. The second device B ₂ for transporting the artificial blood vessel is introduced into an elongated cavity, which is at the thickening of the tube 23a of the balloon catheter 23 is formed while the front tip of it in front of the balloon 23b pulled out, and holds a lying at the rear end wire ring 110 ₂ while a thread 104 in a rear hook 113a the rear end wire ring 110 ₂ hooks. The third device B ₃ for transporting the artificial blood vessel becomes parallel to the balloon catheter 23 arranged and holds another at the rear end wire ring 110 ₂ while a thread 104 in a rear hook 113a the rear end wire ring 110 ₂ hooks. The tube 102 The device B ₃ for transporting the artificial blood vessel is formed of much softer material than that of the other devices for transporting the artificial blood vessel. The tube 102 the device B ₃ for transporting the artificial blood vessel is formed with a long hole formed at the thickening thereof into which the tension rod 114 ₂ is introduced and passes through. Each of these devices B ₁ to B ₃ for transporting the artificial blood vessel is passed through the cartridge 6 and the attachment 5 introduced into a body. When the devices B ₁ , B ₂ on the balloon catheter 23 attached, they can through the cartridge 6 and the attachment 5 with the control valve 68 the cartouche 6 and the control valve 55 the attachment 5 pass through liquid-tight, which are opened by pressing a little. When the device B ₃ in the control valves 68 . 55 are introduced, however, an opening between the device B ₃ and each of the control valves 68 . 55 formed, whereby the liquid-tightness is reduced. For use of the device B ₃ , another hole (not shown in the figures) corresponding to that in the device B ₃ should be provided at the position that is from the center of each control valve 68 . 55 differs.

Next, the method of implanting the artificial blood vessel D will be described below. First, the device B ₁ by using the balloon catheter 23 pressed, then, as in the previous example, the balloon catheter 23 introduced into the catheter through the blood vessel of the groin. Next, the artificial blood vessel D , as in FIG 40 is shown at the target position, more specifically, at the forked, challenged portion. The artificial blood vessel D is in the folded state by the tension rod 114 ₁ . 114 ₂ held. The artificial blood vessel D is located on the connection line of the blood vessel while passing the affected portion a little, by adjusting the position forwards and backwards by means of the devices B ₁ , B ₂ . Then the device B _{3 is passed} through the catheter 8th pressed into the body. When the device B _{3 is} made of soft material, it can be softened in a predetermined direction near the engaged portion when using a J-shaped guide tube F or the like, as in FIG 41 is shown. Under this condition, a catcher E for catching the device for transporting the blood vessel near the affected portion is inserted through the catheter from another bifurcated portion of the groin. The catcher E has a tube e ₁ , a wire e ₂ inserted into the tube e ₁ , and a U-shaped hook e ₃ formed at the front end of the wire e ₂ and extending from the tube e ₁ extends, and is shaped such that the wire e ₂ protrudes from the tube e ₁ , and the hook e ₃ opens at the position where the wire e ₂ protrudes, and that the hook e ₃ through the tube e _first is closed at the position where the wire e _{2 is} inserted into the tube e ₁ . Device B ₃ , which has previously softened, is caught by the use of catcher E and then pulled out of the body through another portion of the bifurcated hinge region. After all the devices B ₁ , B ₂ , B ₃ have been withdrawn from the left and right portions of the groin, as in FIG 42 is shown pulling force in the direction shown by the arrow in the figure on the rear end wire rings 110 ₂ of the artificial blood vessel D by the use of the device B ₂ and B ₃ . Then each of the rear end wire rings 110 ₂ of the Y-shaped artificial blood vessel D is withdrawn from the blood vessel communication line into each of the bifurcated regions of the blood vessel. After the artificial blood vessel D is arranged along the bifurcated blood vessels as in FIG 43 is shown, the wire of the tie rod 114 ₁ . 114 ₂ respectively, which is attached to the device B ₁ , B ₂ for holding the artificial blood vessel D in a folded state, thereby releasing the artificial blood vessel D from the small-sized folded state. Then, the artificial blood vessel D is returned to the state as indicated by broken lines in FIG 43 is shown, and in the inner wall of the affected portion, namely the bifurcated blood vessel, implanted. Finally, each of the wires of the devices B ₁ , B ₂ , B _{3 is} pulled out, thereby releasing the front and rear hooks from the hooked state, thereby making it possible to pull the devices B ₁ , B ₂ , B ₃ out of the body ,

In accordance with the method of implanting the artificial blood vessel D , it is possible to implant an artificial blood vessel in a diseased portion without surgery although the affected portion is located at the forked blood vessel. The artificial blood vessel D does not necessarily have to be small in size previously with the help of threads 100 ₁ . 100 ₂ can also be folded sometimes through a catheter 8th implanted while it has just been folded to a small size, much like the simple, cylindrical, artificial blood vessel A , as in FIG 1 is shown. The rear hook 113a for pulling the rear end wire ring 110 ₂ and the second device B ₂ for transporting the artificial blood vessel may be at the rear end wire ring 110 ₂ of the artificial blood vessel A , as in 1 is shown. This makes it possible for an artificial blood vessel A by adjusting the position of the artificial blood vessel A to the front and to move back, after the artificial blood vessel A from the catheter 8th of the attacked section 26 has been released, whereby an artificial blood vessel A can be implanted with great accuracy.

The artificial Blood vessels can be in a cartridge by pulling back the tension rod are returned. It is effective that the artificial Partial blood vessels have a thread of gold that can be x-rayed to the implanted one Condition of the artificial To absorb blood vessel.

As further in 44 can be shown, a lying at the front end wire ring 210 ₁ have divided its perimeter into eight arches to eight distributed points 241 ₁ . 242 ₁ . 243 ₁ . 244 ₁ . 245 ₁ . 246 ₁ . 247 ₁ . 248 ₁ to divide, taking four of them 241 ₁ . 243 ₁ . 245 ₁ . 247 , are provided with a hook, and the other four 242 ₁ . 244 ₁ . 246 ₁ . 248 ₁ not provided with a hook. As in 45 can be shown, a lying at the front end wire ring 310 ₁ have divided its perimeter into six arches to six distributed points 341 ₁ . 342 ₁ . 343 ₁ . 344 ₁ . 345 ₁ . 346 ₁ to divide, with three of them 341 ₁ . 343 ₁ . 345 ₁ are provided with a hook and the other three 342 ₁ . 344 ₁ . 346 ₁ not provided with a hook.

The device for transporting the artificial blood vessel is provided with a pair of threads with loop-shaped sections. The threads need not always be provided as a pair. However, the threads provided as a pair are effective because a balanced tensile force can be exerted on the artificial blood vessel. The loop-shaped sections can be rotated as a whole. An apparatus for transporting the artificial blood vessel having only a tube and a wire not provided with a thread may be used. For example, as in 46 shown are front hooks 413 at the front end of the wire ring 410 ₁ are made a little bit longer, with each of the loop-shaped sections of the front hook 413 overlaps, and a wire 403 that is from a side window 401 a tube 402 is withdrawn, is passed through and into the overlapping loop-shaped portion to hold the artificial blood vessel. If there are no complications in directly forming the holes in the tubular cover, it is also possible to hold the artificial blood vessel by means of a wire and a tube while using the holes as hooks.

A Such device for transporting the artificial blood vessel can therefore used in one spot to make a hole that is at the heart or the like occurs to close.

The intervening wire rings 112 can through a support rod 500 be bridged as in 34 is shown. The support bar 500 at the wire rings in between 112 is mounted, improves the tubular shape of the artificial blood vessel D in strength and structure. The support bar 500 can be attached to the front or the end wire ring 110 ₁ . 110 ₂ be attached. If the support rod 500 in the same position around the circumference of the front and rear wire ring 110 ₁ . 110 ₂ as well as the wire ring in between 112 it does not prevent the artificial blood vessel D from being folded.

To the artificial blood vessel A by insertion into a hopper 18 from the big section 18a to the small section 18b to fold to a small size, the artificial blood vessel A may previously be in a tubular member 600 be included, which has a larger diameter than that of the small section 18b of the hopper 18 and a smaller one than that of the big section 18a of the hopper 18 has, as in 47 is shown. The insertion of the tube component 600 into the hopper 18 to an investment engagement with the inner wall of the hopper 18 and pulling out the artificial blood vessel A from the side of the front end wire ring enables the artificial blood vessel A to be folded into a smaller shape to be in the small area 18b of the hopper 18 and to be introduced to the catheter.

In addition, as in 48 shown, two artificial blood vessels A ₁ , A ₂ prepared, and the front end wire ring 110 ₁ of the artificial blood vessel A ₂ , which must be inserted later, is located in front of the rear end wire ring 10 ₂ of the artificial blood vessel A ₂ , which must be previously inserted, so that the artificial blood vessel A _{1 can be} connected to the artificial blood vessel A ₂ while partially overlapping each other at the abutting positions. Then the whole length of the connected, artificial blood vessel can pass through relatively easily Setting the length of the overlapping section to be changed. This makes it possible for the artificial blood vessel A ₁ , A ₂ , which have the same standard, for the affected section 26 can be tailored, whose length or shape can vary a bit. It is particularly advantageous that the artificial blood vessel A ₂ located downstream has a smaller diameter than that of the artificial blood vessel A ₁ located upstream, and that the artificial blood vessel A ₂ located downstream is partially immersed in the artificial blood vessel A ₂ artificial blood vessel A _{1 is} introduced, which is arranged upstream. The thus arranged artificial blood vessels A ₁ , A ₂ are easily connected, and moreover, they can be implanted satisfactorily, so that they can be adapted to the shape of the blood vessel into which the artificial blood vessel A ₁ , A _{2 is} to be implanted, since normally blood vessels are gradually smaller in diameter from upstream to downstream. Of course, even if the artificial blood vessels have the same diameter, it is not difficult to partially introduce one of the artificial blood vessels into the other only by deforming one of the artificial blood vessels.

Next, an artificial blood vessel to be implanted in an affected portion whose shape is forked as described above will now be described in detail with reference to FIG 49 to 53 described.

The artificial blood vessel D , which is in 49 is basically the same in construction as the one shown 34 , Unlike the artificial blood vessel D , which is in a catheter 8th while the whole artificial blood vessel D is folded to a small size as in 35 is shown, the artificial blood vessel D is in a catheter 8th while only a small diameter bifurcated section is folded to a small size, as in FIG 49 is shown. The reason is that the thorn 12a ₁ to prevent unnecessarily damaging the trade of the body, which is to be implanted. This is accomplished by disengaging at least a major portion of the artificial blood vessel D at a particular position from the first one to avoid adjusting the position of the main body after release. The artificial blood vessel D becomes a small size with the help of the threads 100 ₁ . 110 ₂ and the tension rod 114 folded, as related to 36 and 37 is described. As in 49 is shown, then the artificial blood vessel D to the bifurcated, attacked portion as a target position by means of the aforementioned three devices B ₁ , B ₂ and B ₃ for transporting the artificial blood vessel (see 38 ). No balloon catheter is attached to the first device B ₁ for transporting the artificial blood vessel, however, it is understood that a balloon catheter can be attached if necessary. In this case, a balloon catheter is not necessarily introduced into a body together with the artificial blood vessel D , but may be introduced into a body after the artificial blood vessel D has been transported to a target organ in the body.

As in 49 ₁ , the first blood vessel transporting apparatus B ₁ holds the front end wire ring 110 ₁ while the front end thereof passes through the artificial blood vessel D and protrudes from the anterior end. The second device B ₂ for transporting the artificial blood vessel holds one of the rear end wire rings 110 ₂ with its front end, which is arranged at the rear of the artificial blood vessel D. The third device B ₃ for transporting the artificial blood vessel holds the other rear end wire ring 110 ₂ with its front end, which is arranged at the rear of the artificial blood vessel D. As in 38 are tie rods 114 ₁ and 114 ₂ although not in 49 shown attached to the second and third devices B ₂ and B ₃ for transporting the blood vessel to hold the artificial blood vessel D in a folded state. In particular, the third device B ₃ for transporting the artificial blood vessel is made of more flexible material than that of the other devices B ₁ and B ₂ . In addition, at least the length corresponding to the distance from a groin portion of a thigh to the affected portion of the base end B _{3a of} the third artificial blood vessel transporting apparatus B ₃ is made of a guide member b _3x , such as a coil spring which is not only flexible but it is also indicative that a force can be transmitted to the whole area thereof by changing a portion thereof so that the whole apparatus B ₃ can be freely rotated, inserted or pulled. The base end b _3a is bent sideways along its length, thereby making it possible to relatively change the position of the base end B _3a by changing the guide member b _{3x of} the device B ₃ .

These devices B ₁ , B ₂ and B ₃ are inserted into a catheter 8th through the cartouche 6 and the attachment 5 introduced as in 28 is shown. As previously mentioned, since devices B ₁ and B _{2 are} not attached to a balloon catheter, devices B ₁ and B _{2 are} assembled with device B ₃ and inserted into the catheter 6 introduced while the valve 68 is pushed open. Hence, when the cartridge 6 attached to the attachment, as in 28 As shown, bleeding from the portion through which the devices B ₁ , B ₂ and B _{3 are} introduced may easily occur. A protective cover 700 is to prevent a blood exit at the rear end of the cartridge 6 previously provided, as in 49 is shown. After the devices B ₁ , B ₂ and B ₃ in the cartridge 6 introduced together with the artificial blood vessel A , the protective cover 700 with the cartouche 6 connected while the valve 68 is pushed open. In 60 are the cartouche 6 and the attachment 5 between the protective cover and the catheter 8th are provided, omitted. The protective cover 700 basically has the same structure as the catheter 8th and is with a valve 701 provided at its rear end. In the middle of the valve 701 is a hole 711 provided that against the elasticity of the valve 701 can be expressed as in 51 is shown. The valve 701 is also with three other holes 712 each of which is radially and equidistantly spaced from the center of the valve 701 is provided, and the distance between each adjacent hole 712 is the same. Between the hole 711 and each of the holes 712 is a thick wall 713 provided so as not to easily break both holes 711 and 712 to connect with each other. The first device B ₁ is in and through the hole 711 are introduced, and the second and third devices B ₂ and B ₃ are each through two of the three holes 712 introduced and passed through. Instead of the valve 701 , can a valve 702 , as in 52 is shown used. The valve 702 has holes 721 and 722 at positions similar to those of the holes 711 and 712 out 51 correspond. On the circumference of each hole 721 and 722 is in each case an annular, protruding portion 721a and 722a whose interior is interlocked to thin in. The valve thus arranged is for preventing breakage between the hole 721 and the holes 722 effective. The device B ₃ is inserted into and through the catheter through a guide tube H and passed therethrough, as in FIG 49 is shown. The guide tube H is arranged such that the base end h ₁ outside the protective cover 700 is arranged, and the front end h ₂ through the protective cover 700 and a catheter 8th is enough and then placed near a bifurcated, attacked section. At the base end h _{1 of} the guide tube H is a valve 70 provided as in 53 is shown. The valve 70 is with two holes 70a and 70b provided against the elasticity of the valve 70 can be pressed, and in the front end of the device B _{3 is} introduced.

Next, the method of implanting the artificial blood vessel D will be described below. Like the procedure that is in 25 is shown, first the first device B ₁ , the second device B ₂ and the guide tube H in the catheter 6 introduced along with the folded, artificial blood vessel D , while the hole of the valve 68 is pressed. The third device B ₃ is inserted into the guide tube H through the hole 70a of the valve 70 which is inserted at the base end h ₁ of the guide pipe H provided. Next is the protective cover 700 into the cartouche 6 introduced while the valve 68 at the rear end of the cartridge 6 is provided, is pressed. Since the devices B ₁ , B ₂ and B ₃ in and through the holes 711 and 712 the protective wrapper is passed and passed in advance, as previously mentioned (the third device B ₃ is inserted into the guide tube H ) when the front end of the protective wrapper 700 into the cartouche 6 through the valve 68 is introduced, the inside of the cartridge 6 through the inside of the protective cover 700 connected, and the inner space is liquid-tight outside the valve 701 sealed. After the artificial blood vessel D has been transported to a certain position beyond the groin area of the forked affected portion by changing the first device B ₁ , the artificial blood vessel D becomes the catheter 8th released as in 49 is shown. Accompanying the artificial blood vessel D , the second and third devices B ₂ and B _{3 are drawn} into the body and introduced. The third device B ₃ is inserted into the body to accompany the guide tube H. The artificial blood vessel D is released after the main portion of the artificial blood vessel D is located at the predetermined position. The bifurcated portion of the artificial blood vessel D is passed through the tension rod 114 ₁ and 114 ₂ , as in 38 is shown held in a folded state after release. During this step, another bifurcated, rear-end wire ring becomes 110 ₂ to the forked position, as indicated by the arrow Z in FIG 49 is pushed with the aid of the third device B ₃ . Next, the base end B _{3a of} the third device B _{3 is} turned down and inserted into the guide tube H. More specifically, the base end B _{3a of} the third device B _{3 is} pushed to the hole 70b of the valve 70 to open, as in 53 is shown to be inserted into the guide tube H. After that, the guide member B _{3x is} gripped to push and transport the third device B ₃ until the base end B _{3a is} inserted into the body through the front end H _{2 of} the guide tube H. In this condition, a gripper G for grasping the apparatus for transporting the artificial blood vessel near the affected portion is inserted through the catheter K from another bifurcated portion of the groin area. The gripper G consists of a tube g ₁ , are introduced and passed into the two wires g ₂ and g ₃ , while both front ends of the wires g ₂ and g ₃ are connected together to form a loop. More specifically, the gripper G is arranged so that a single wire is inserted and passed through the tube g ₁ , and then the front end of the simple wire is turned down and returned to the tube g ₁ through the same end of the tube g ₁ introduced, from which a wire has been led out. When the wires g ₂ and g ₃ are pressed against the tube g ₁ , the loop that protrudes from the tube g ₁ becomes larger, and when the wires g ₂ and g ₃ are pulled by the tube g ₁ , the loop becomes that extends from the tube g ₁ , smaller. The base end b _3a is caught by the gripper G by changing the guide member b _{3x of} the third device B ₃ and the gripper G. As previously mentioned, the third device B ₃ is curved about the base end b _3a to allow the gripper G to easily grasp the device B ₃ . As a result, it becomes easy to rotate, insert or pull the third device B ₃ by manipulating the guide member b _3x , which is outside the guide tube H. After grasping by the gripper G , the base end b _{3a is} pulled out of the body through another groin area of the thigh. After the base end b _{3a has been} further pulled out, the length of the third device B _{3 is} outside the valve 70 the guide tube H is shorter and shorter, and finally the third device B ₃ buckles between the hole 70a and the hole 70b of the valve 70 , Then the valve 70 between the hole 70a and the hole 70b artificially broken, so that the third device B _{3 is} completely contained in the guide tube H. The valve 70 can be broken by a surgical forceps or a rod-shaped material. When the rod-shaped material remains in the guide tube H after the valve 70 It has been broken, it can effectively bleeding from the broken part of the valve 70 prevent. Next, the base end b _{3a of} the third device B _{3 is} further pulled out of the body by another groin area of the thigh until only the front end of the third device B ₃ remains in the body, as in FIG 50 is shown. After the third device B _{3 has} been pulled out of the body, the rear end wire ring becomes 110 ₂ of the Y-shaped artificial blood vessel D in a suitable position of another branch of the connecting line of the blood vessel by pulling toward the in 50 inserted arrow inserted. After the artificial blood vessel D is located in the proper position, the wires of the tie rods become 114 ₁ and 114 ₂ (in 42 shown), each of which is attached to the second and third devices B ₂ and B ₃ respectively, pulled to release the artificial blood vessel D from the folded state. The bifurcated portions of the artificial blood vessel D are returned to the original shape and implanted in the bifurcated inner wall of the blood vessel of the affected portion. In the end, every wire becomes 3 the devices B ₁ , B ₂ and B ₃ (see 15 ) to pull from the front end wire ring 110 ₁ and the rear end wire ring 110 ₂ to be freed. Then, the devices B ₁ , B ₂ and B _{3 can be taken} out of the body.

In accordance with the aforementioned method, the third device B ₃ can be gripped by the gripper G with great accuracy without entangling in the artificial blood vessel D. More specifically, since the third device B ₃ in the catheter 8th is inserted through the guide tube H , the third device B ₃ may be discharged from the artificial blood vessel D or the like during transportation in the catheter 8th are removed, whereby without obstructing the third device B ₃ entanglement in the artificial blood vessel D or in the devices B ₁ and B _{2 is} prevented, which can otherwise occur if the third device B ₃ directly into the catheter 8th without using the guide tube H is introduced. This also avoids difficulties in pulling the artificial blood vessel D or the devices B ₁ and B ₂ . As a result, the third device B ₃ can be inserted into another branch without error. Since the guide tube H is arranged such that its front tip h _{2 is} closer to the bifurcated position of the affected portion than the forward end of the catheter 8th is, it is easier to grasp the base end b _3a by the gripper G. As a result, the number of successful implants can be drastically improved. This effect can also be achieved by using the J-shaped guide tube F as shown in FIG 41 shown to be achieved. Since not only the front end of the device B ₃ but also the base end b _3a thereof are turned down, the base end b _3a is gripped by the gripper G when the base end b _3a protrudes from the front end h _{2 of} the guide tube H. Consequently, the position of the base end b _3a can be adjusted freely by changing the guide member b _3x . As a result, the device B ₃ can be gripped by the gripper G with high accuracy. In addition, since the front end of the looper G is looped and smoothly shaped, there is no danger of damaging tissues of the body. Since the third device B _{3 is transported} in the catheter K in a V-shaped folded state, if it has to be taken after grasping, the base end b _{3a of} the third device B _{3 can be taken} out of the body without error.

The device B (B ₁ , B ₂ and B ₃ ) for transporting the artificial blood vessel may be modified. The side window that is in the tube 2 is formed, as in 45 to 58 is shown has the first and the second opening hole 11H and 12H which are spaced apart from each other. The wire 3 coming out of the tube 2 through the first opening hole 11H is pulled through the threads 4 hooked and then into the tube 2 through the second opening hole 12H introduced. The thus arranged Vorrich Device B for transporting the artificial blood vessel does not require as large an opening as the side window as in 5 is shown. It follows that the tube 2 around the side window are thick enough to prevent bending, thus effectively improving the strength of the device B. In this case, the section of the device B may have a flat section 2X between the opening hole 11H and 12H have, as in 59 to 63 is shown. With the device B , which has a flat section 2X has, can the wire 3 coming from the first opening hole 11H is pulled in the second opening hole 12H be introduced while the wire 3 remains relatively straight. Then the wire can 3 effectively prevented from bending, and it also prevents the case of the wire 3 not out of the tube 2 is pulled out. 64 shows another cut, which has a concave section 2Y shows. As another, another variation, as in 65 to 67 shown is the tube 2 two tube elements 2A and 2 B that are spaced apart from each other and a port 2C included to the outer circumference of both tube elements 2A and 2 B connect to. It does not matter what structure the tube has as long as the tube as a whole is strong enough, the device for transporting the artificial blood vessel can conveniently transport the artificial blood vessel. The tube, which has two tube elements, is particularly effective for a tube that has an extremely small diameter. If the ultra-small diameter tube is provided with a side window, the window occupies most of the tube, which can weaken the tube's strength. Consequently, the tube, the two tube elements 2A and 2 B has a suitable strength, as long as that for 2C used material is strong enough. The connection 2C can be the inner circumference of two tube elements 2A and 2 B connect as in 68 to 70 is shown. The section of the tube element 2A . 2 B is not on a circle, like in 69 is shown limited but may be flat or a semicircle. The device B for transporting the artificial blood vessel, as in 54 to 70 shown must also have a thread 4 to have. In this case, the device B can effectively pull the artificial blood vessel A when the wire 3 directly into the hook or a hole formed directly in the cover is inserted.

An artificial blood vessel according to the invention is in 71 shown. The artificial blood vessel P basically has the same structure as that in FIG 1 shown artificial blood vessel A , except that an inventive elastic thread 500 (For example, a thread of urethane or the like), which can be pulled apart or compressed to shorten the length of the artificial blood vessel P , within the tubular cover 7 embedded along a specific surface line. The thus arranged artificial blood vessel P can be compact in a catheter 8th when folded to a small size. Since the artificial blood vessel P to a curved shape, as in 71 shown can be attributed when it comes out of the catheter 8th is freed, since the inventive elastic thread 500 restrains a part of the artificial blood vessel P from returning into a cylindrical shape, the artificial blood vessel P fits into the blood vessel when it is implanted in a curved, disturbed portion, such as a bent portion of the aorta, thereby preventing blood leakage. This effect can be best improved by using the artificial blood vessel P with an artificial blood vessel having a fold section. It is also effective if a part or the whole catheter 8th made of pleats, although not shown in figures. A catheter 8th with a simple cylindrical shape is not easy to break, but difficult to repair once it has been broken, resulting in a narrowing in a body. While the catheter 8th made of pleats that easily fits into a bent portion of the body by forming a natural curvature, thereby effectively preventing a narrowing of a body. Thus, the creased catheter is useful for transporting various types of devices in addition to the artificial blood vessels.

The device B for transporting the artificial blood vessel may be used to pull various types of devices in addition to the artificial blood vessels to introduce them into a body. The guide tube H , with the valve 70 is also suitable for placing an artificial blood vessel in a bifurcated section having two or more branches. When the artificial blood vessel having branches branching from the connection line is used for the aorta of a neck, the connection line is placed at the curved portion of the aorta and the branch is inserted into the artery of the carotid artery or into the artery of the upper arm. In this case, the artificial blood vessel can be implanted with ease and accuracy by using the guide tube H. Furthermore, the valve 68 , as in 51 and 52 is shown to be used when a plurality of devices for transporting the artificial blood vessel are introduced in parallel into a body without causing bleeding.

POSSIBLE APPLICATIONS IN THE INDUSTRY

As mentioned previously, the device to be implanted in accordance with the invention is valuable as an artificial blood vessel. she can also be folded to a small size by the method of folding the device to be implanted, in particular due to the slight movement of the intervening wire rings, which assume a uniform wavy shape having the same phase as the whole. The method of using the device to be implanted makes it possible to easily implant a Y-shaped device to be implanted into a bifurcated portion of a human organ without surgical intervention.

The artificial blood vessel P includes a front end wire ring, a rear end wire ring opposing the front end wire ring, a tubular cover 7 , which are the wire rings at the ends 10 ₁ . 10 ₂ connects, and a plurality of intermediate wire rings, which are spaced apart and located between the front and at the rear end of the wire ring. Each wire ring at the front end, wire ring at the back end, and every wire ring in between has flexible, foldable elasticity. The blood vessel P is with a stretchable, elastic thread 500 provided, which acts on the device to be implanted to guide them to a curved shape.

Claims (6)

Device to be implanted with a front end wire ring, a rear end wire ring opposite to the front end wire ring, a tubular cover (FIG. 7 ) connecting the front and rear end wire rings and a plurality of intermediate wire rings spaced from each other and located between the front and rear end wire rings, each of the wire rings having a flexible foldable elasticity , characterized in that a stretchable, elastic thread ( 500X ) which acts on the device to be implanted to return it to a curved shape. Device to be implanted according to claim 1, thereby marked that the elastic thread made of urethane is. Device to be implanted according to claim 1 or 2, thereby marked that the cover the shape of a bellows Has. Device to be implanted according to claim 1, 2 or 3, thereby marked that a single one at the far end Wire ring is arranged to a single lying at the front end Wire ring opposite to lie. Device to be implanted according to claim 1, 2 or 3, thereby marked that two in parallel, at the rear Ended wire rings are arranged to a single am lying opposite the front end of the wire ring, and that the tubular cover is forked to the front end lying wire ring with the two lying at the rear end wire rings by training a To connect Y-shape. Device to be implanted according to claim 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, characterized in that the circumference of the front Ended wire rings in four or an even number over four Divided points evenly is Hook elements for a front pull cord are formed to be at each other of the to pass through distributed points, and that the scope the intervening wire ring to the tubular cover by sewing or with adhesive attached to the positions that correspond to the centers between every two adjacent, distributed points on the am match the front end of the wire ring.